Australis Wolf Fish (Hoplias australis)

Australis Wolf Fish — Hoplias australis
The ambush king of South America

The Australis Wolf Fish is a true freshwater predator — heavy-bodied, stone-headed, and built entirely for explosive strikes. With a broad jaw packed with teeth and a mottled earth-tone pattern, it blends perfectly into shadow and structure. It rarely wastes energy swimming; instead it waits motionless, tracking movement before lunging forward in a sudden burst of power.

Native to slow rivers, lagoons, and floodplain habitats of South America, Hoplias australis relies on stealth rather than speed. When food passes within range the strike is instant and unmistakable. This species is highly aware and quickly recognizes feeding routines, often watching activity outside the aquarium long before a meal hits the water.

Reaching 16–24+ inches, the Australis becomes a commanding centerpiece fish best suited for serious predator keepers. Calm most of the time, but decisive at feeding — exactly what makes wolf fish legendary.

Aquarium Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 180–240 gallons (wide footprint preferred)

• Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel

• Flow: Low to moderate

• Décor: Heavy wood, shaded areas, caves, open ambush zones

• Lighting: Dim to subdued (brings out natural behavior)

• Lid: Tight cover required — powerful jumper

Tank Mates

Best kept alone or with carefully chosen robust species:

• Large armored catfish

• Bigger plecos

• Some bichirs

• Very large cichlids (case dependent)

Avoid slim or similarly sized fish — anything swallowable will eventually be eaten.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 74–82°F (23–28°C)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Hardness: Soft to medium

• Filtration: Strong biological filtration, low turbulence

• Water Quality: Stable, clean water important

Diet

Strict carnivore:

• Fish fillet

• Shrimp / prawn

• Worms

• Insects

(We recommend frozen/thawed foods over live feeders.)

*This new rare species of wolf fish is endemic to the rio Uruguai; Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay.